Herc Says Fox's SLEEPY HOLLOW Is The Best Of The New Fall Hourlongs He’s Seen So Far!!

A new hourlong fantasy-action-drama from “Fringe” co-creators Bob Orci and Alex Kurtzman, “Sleepy Hollow” follows American soldier Ichabod Crane after the witchy forces of Sleepy Hollow transport him (and the surprisingly healthy fellow he beheaded) from 1781 to 2013.

It’s the best new fall hourlong I’ve seen. (I’ve not yet seen “Agents of SHIELD.” And “Resurrection” doesn’t arrive till next year.)

The best thing about the pilot is the time-lost nature of the hero, who fought under George Washington and is understandably taken aback by how much things have changed in 232 years. (He’s a little freaked out that women now wear trousers. What will he make of the fact that his nation is now ruled by a Hawaiian?)

It’s as if the creators decided to combine Washington Irving’s two most famous tales -- “The Legend of Sleepy Hollow” and “Rip Van Winkle.”

I also like that the Headless Horseman is quick to put down his sword and pick up the much more modern semi-automatic weaponry suddenly available to him.

... It's a show that goes for broke, does not apologize for its excesses and is never, ever boring. In a freshman class full of forgettable new dramas, it stands out by virtue of embracing every possible way in which it could go awry, because ultimately being boring is worse than being bad. …

... Mr. Mison and Ms. Beharie are a likable team. It helps that both actors are relatively unknown to audiences, making for an easier buy-in to the silly proceedings. Their interactions provide the show's few lighter moments but it still needs more humor to offset the goofy premise. …

... Even amid the excess exposition, you'll be able to spot a few enjoyable jolts, some clever, throwaway culture-shock moments and the charms of the show's two stars. Combined, they give the show more than enough room to grow into an entertaining weekly adventure.…